Charlotte software company Passport settles into new digs uptown

Passport, a mobile payments firm based in Charlotte, moved into its new 28,000-square-foot office space at First Citizens Bank Plaza in December of last year. Six months later, the company is settled into its new uptown digs.

Passport’s new headquarters is based on a theme of city life, with the two floors dubbed as “uptown” and “downtown.” The grid-like office design incorporates elements of wood, concrete and natural light to add to the urban feel.

Decór ranges from sleek sofas and modern-style tables in the common areas to a fun beanbag room to host smaller meetings. There is a total of 22 conference rooms.

The upstairs is designed to look like a park area, with swatches of green astroturf strategically placed around the space. Kitchen and snack areas are popular choices for employees and allow for a more relaxed atmosphere in the workspace.

“We believe our new office space will continue to encourage innovation and accelerate further our ability to bring solutions to market,” Chief Executive Bob Youakim said in a previous press release.

Prior to moving into the First Citizens building, Passport had leased 8,000 square feet at the former Textile Mill Supply Co. building on South Mint Street since 2014. The company moved out of that space to accommodate its rapidly growing employee base. Passport currently employs more than 100 people and plans to hire 30 more this year.

Passport selected Barringer Construction as the general contractor for the upfit and chose Perkins+Will as the architect. Durham-based real estate investment firm The Dilweg Cos. bought First Citizens Bank Plaza in 2017.